Dandruff is a common problem that may affect your scalp at any age and time. White or yellowish flakes may cause irritation or embarrassment for you. There are various commercial anti-dandruff products available including medicated shampoos. But some individuals prefer natural remedies as they are effective and harmless. Baking soda, a household ingredient, is popular as an effective remedy to cure dandruff.
How to use baking soda for treating dandruff? Is baking soda really effective for flakes and irritation? Keep on reading.
In this article, you’ll know the efficacy of baking soda against dandruff, its benefits for hair, and 11 effective remedies to use as a dandruff treatment.
Is Baking Soda Effective Against Dandruff?
Baking soda, also known as sodium bicarbonate, can help balance the pH level of the scalp due to its alkaline properties. This alkalinity tends to balance the scalp pH leading to flakes and irritation. Baking soda is popular for years and is now an effective and harmless science-backed remedy for dandruff treatment which you can use in various ways.
Many individuals have reported positive results with baking soda as a dandruff-fighting agent. You can also try baking soda if you need additional treatment to speed up flakes free scalp.
Does Baking Soda Harm Your Scalp?
Baking soda has a pH of 9, which is considerably higher than the natural pH of the scalp, which is around 5.5. Baking soda in undiluted form or using excessive or extensive rubbing can disturb the scalp’s pH balance and lead to dryness, and irritation, and potentially damage the hair cuticles.
So, you need to use it properly and in moderation to avoid any side effects.
Benefits of using Baking Soda for Hair
With proper usage and in appropriate quantities, baking soda can offer several benefits for hair, including:
Dandruff Reduction: Baking soda helps eliminate excess oil and flakes from the scalp to reduce dandruff. Its antifungal properties also target the fungus responsible for dandruff production.
Scalp Exfoliation: The fine particles of baking soda gently exfoliate the scalp, remove dead skin cells and product buildup.
Natural Cleanser: Baking soda acts as a natural clarifying agent. It removes impurities and dead skin cells from your hair.
Enhanced Hair Texture: Some users report improved hair texture and shine after using baking soda treatments.
Dry Shampoo: Do you have an oily scalp with high sebum production? You can use baking soda as a dry shampoo to clean the scalp.
Cost-Effective Solution: Baking soda is a budget-friendly yet effective and proven alternative to commercial dandruff products.
Is Baking Soda and Baking Powder the Same?
Most people confuse baking powder and baking soda. Despite having similar names and colors, baking soda and baking powder are not the same. They have different chemical compositions and functions in baking.
Here’s a table to distinguish between baking soda and baking powder:
| Property | Baking Soda | Baking Powder |
| Composition | Sodium Bicarbonate | Baking Soda + Acid |
| Function in Baking | Reacts with acid to produce carbon dioxide, causing baked goods to rise | Contains both an acid and a base, eliminating the need for additional acid in recipes |
| Dandruff Treatment | Yes | Not for dandruff treatment |
| Color | White | White |
| Consistency | Fine powder | Fine powder |
Note: The consistency and color of the baking soda may vary depending on the manufacturer or brand.
11 Baking Soda Remedies For Treating Dandruff Effectively
So, now you know the benefits and effectiveness of baking soda for getting rid of dandruff. Let’s come to the practical point and make excellent baking soda remedies. Again you need to be careful about the concentration and dilution of baking soda.
You can use any of the following baking soda remedies that suit your scalp.
Baking Soda and Coconut Oil Hair Mask
Benefits:
This powerful hair mask combines the exfoliating properties of baking soda with the nourishing effects of coconut oil. It helps eliminate dandruff and product buildup. Moreover, the baking soda and coconut oil hair mask promotes a healthier scalp, resulting in smoother, shinier hair.
Preparation:
In a small bowl, mix 2 tablespoons of baking soda with 3 tablespoons of melted coconut oil. Mix them to form a smooth paste.
Application:
- Apply the mask to your scalp and hair, focusing on the roots.
- Gently massage for 2-3 minutes.
- Leave it on hair for 15-20 minutes
- Rinsing thoroughly with water and shampoo as usual.
How frequent to use:
Use this hair mask once a week to avoid over-exfoliation and maintain a balanced scalp pH.
Baking Soda and Lemon Juice Rinse
Benefits:
Lemon’s antimicrobial properties contribute to a healthier scalp by reducing the oil and flakes. The combination of baking soda and lemon juice creates a natural scalp rinse that helps combat dandruff, balance pH levels, and reduce oiliness.
Preparation:
Mix 2 tablespoons of baking soda with half lemon juice in a container.
Application:
- First, shampoo your hair
- Apply the mixture to your scalp and hair.
- Massaging gently for 2,3 minutes.
- Rinse thoroughly with cool water.
How frequent to use:
Use this rinse twice a week to maintain a healthy scalp.
Baking Soda and Apple Cider Vinegar Solution
Benefits:
Apple cider vinegar’s acidity restores pH balance, removes dead skin cells, and adds shine to the hair. The mixture of baking soda and apple cider vinegar serves as an effective dandruff-fighting solution.
Preparation:
Dilute 1 tablespoon of baking soda in 1 cup of water. In a separate container, mix 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar with 1 cup of water.
Application:
- First, apply the baking soda solution to your scalp and hair.
- Gently massage for 3 minutes.
- Rinse it off thoroughly.
- Pour the apple cider vinegar solution over your hair.
- Don’t rinse again with shampoo.
How frequent to use:
Use this solution once every two weeks to avoid overuse and maintain scalp health.
Baking Soda and Tea Tree Oil Shampoo
Benefits:
The antibacterial properties of tea tree oil help combat dandruff and soothe an irritated scalp. The baking soda and tea tree oil shampoo become a great cleanser for your irritated scalp.
Preparation:
Add 1 tablespoon of baking soda to your regular shampoo and mix well. Then, add 4-5 drops of tea tree oil and blend thoroughly.
Application:
- Wet your hair and apply the shampoo you made.
- Focus application on the scalp.
- Massage gently and leave it on for 2-3 minutes
- Rinse thoroughly with clean water.
How frequent to use:
Use this shampoo once or twice a week as part of your regular hair care routine.
Baking Soda and Aloe Vera Gel Blend
Benefits:
Combining baking soda with aloe vera gel creates a soothing blend that helps alleviate scalp itchiness, dandruff, and inflammation. Thus promotes hair health and shine.
Preparation:
In a bowl, mix 2 tablespoons of baking soda with 3 tablespoons of fresh aloe vera gel and form a smooth paste.
Application:
- Apply the blend to your scalp and hair
- Gently massage in circular motions.
- Leave it on for 15-20 minutes.
- Wash your hair with cool water.
How frequent to use:
Apply this blend once a week to revitalize your scalp and maintain healthy hair.
Baking Soda and Olive Oil Hair Treatment
Benefits:
This nourishing hair treatment combines baking soda’s exfoliating power with the moisturizing properties of olive oil. It helps remove dandruff, dead skin cells, and product buildup. So, restore moisture and repair damaged hair.
Preparation:
Mix 2 tablespoons of baking soda with 2 tablespoons of olive oil and form a consistent paste.
Application:
- Apply the mixture to your scalp and hair
- Gently massage the mixture.
- Leave it on for 20-30 minutes and shampoo as usual.
How frequent to use:
Use this treatment once every two weeks to maintain a balanced scalp and hydrated hair.
Baking Soda and Honey Hair Mask
Benefits:
The blend of baking soda and honey creates a potent hair mask that targets dandruff and promotes hair growth. Honey’s antibacterial and moisturizing properties work in combination with baking soda to soothe the scalp. It also enhances hair shine and texture.
Preparation:
In a bowl, combine 2 tablespoons of baking soda with 1 tablespoon of honey to form a smooth paste.
Application:
- Apply the mask to your scalp and hair.
- Let it sit for 15-20 minutes.
- Rinse thoroughly with water.
How frequent to use:
Apply this hair mask once a week to nourish your scalp and maintain healthy hair.
Baking Soda and Yogurt Scalp Treatment
Benefits:
The antifungal and antioxidant rich yogurt is a natural moisturizer for flaky irritated scalp and a cleaner for excess oil. The soothing yogurt and baking soda mask aids in removing dandruff, reducing itchiness, and balancing scalp pH, leading to a healthier scalp and hair.
Preparation:
Mix 2 tablespoons of baking soda with 3 tablespoons of plain yogurt to form a fine paste.
Application:
- Apply the mixture to your scalp
- Massage gently for a few minutes.
- Sit for 15-20 minutes before rinsing thoroughly.
How frequent to use:
Use this scalp treatment once a week to maintain hair texture and health.
Baking Soda and Rosewater Rinse
Benefits:
The combination of baking soda and rosewater forms a gentle yet effective scalp rinse that helps eliminate dandruff, soothe irritation, and impart a pleasant fragrance to your hair.
Preparation:
Dilute 1 tablespoon of baking soda in 1 cup of water. Add 2-3 tablespoons of rosewater to the solution and mix well.
Application:
- Shampoo your hair.
- Pour the mixture over your scalp and hair, making sure to cover all areas.
- Allow it to sit for a minute or two.
- Clean with cool water.
How frequent to use:
Use this rosewater rinse once every two weeks.
Baking Soda and Witch Hazel Scalp Spray
Benefits:
Witch hazel is a deep cleansing agent to reduce oil, inflammation, and irritation of the scalp. Combining baking soda with witch hazel creates a soothing scalp spray that helps alleviate dandruff and maintain a healthy scalp.
Preparation:
In a spray bottle, mix 1 tablespoon of baking soda, and 1/2 cup of witch hazel extract.
Application:
- Part your hair and spray the mixture directly onto your scalp.
- Gently massage it in for a few minutes.
- Leave it on without rinsing.
How frequent to use:
Use this scalp spray once a week or as needed to soothe your scalp and address dandruff.
Baking Soda and Chamomile Tea Infusion
Benefits:
The combination of baking soda and chamomile tea forms a calming mask that helps reduce dandruff and scalp irritation while imparting a natural shine to your hair.
Preparation:
Brew a strong cup of chamomile tea and let it cool. Mix 2 tablespoons of baking soda into the chamomile tea until it dissolves.
Application:
- First, shampoo your hair.
- Pour the infusion over your scalp and hair.
- Gently massaging and leave it on for a few minutes.
- Rinse thoroughly.
How frequent to use:
Use this chamomile tea infusion once every two weeks to enjoy its calming effects on your scalp and enhance hair luster.
Precautions for Using Baking Soda
Baking soda is affordable and effective against dandruff. But it is essential to follow these precautions:
Always Dilute:
Never use undiluted baking soda on your scalp as it can irritate.
Patch Test:
Before applying baking soda remedies, perform a patch test to check for any allergic reactions.
Moderate Usage:
Use baking soda treatments sparingly to avoid disrupting the scalp’s pH balance.
Moisturize:
After using baking soda, follow up with a moisturizing conditioner or natural oil to prevent dryness.
Proper Wash:
Make sure to wash properly your hair after using any baking soda remedy. So there are no traces of baking soda left in your hair.
Application Time:
All the remedies we discussed above have short application times. Be careful and don’t leave the baking soda for a long time to avoid any side effects.
Final Verdict:
Baking soda can be a valuable natural remedy for eliminating dandruff when used responsibly. With its exfoliating and pH-balancing properties, it can help alleviate scalp issues and promote healthier hair.
Most baking remedies are anecdotally proven for scalp cleaning and dandruff removal. Remember to use baking soda remedies with care and precautions.
If you have any doubts or concerns or still dandruff persists, consult a dermatologist or hair care professional.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is It Safe To Use Baking Soda On Hair?
Baking soda is safe for most people when used correctly and in moderate quantities. But with sensitive skin, it may not suit your scalp. Some individuals may experience scalp irritation, dryness, or a slight burning sensation. So it’s crucial to be cautious and discontinue use if any adverse reactions occur.
Does Baking Soda Affect Hair Growth?
There is no direct evidence to suggest that baking soda affects or stops hair growth. However, using baking soda excessively or incorrectly may lead to scalp issues that could indirectly impact hair health.
Are Baking Soda Remedies Suitable For All Hair Types?
Baking soda remedies may work well for many individuals to get rid of dandruff. But their effectiveness can vary depending on hair type and condition. Some people with very dry or sensitive scalps may find it too harsh. If you have any concerns, it’s always best to consult with a dermatologist or hair care expert.
Can I Use Baking Soda Permanently Instead of Shampoo?
Baking soda remedies can be a beneficial addition to your hair care routine. But don’t entirely replace it with your regular shampoo. It’s best to use baking soda remedies as supplementary treatments rather than a permanent replacement for your shampoo.
